Lynch declares state of emergency in N.H., urges drivers to stay off roads

Monday

Oct 29, 2012 at 11:21 AMOct 29, 2012 at 12:33 PM

CONCORD – Governor John Lynch this morning declared a state of emergency for New Hampshire and urged all motorists to stay off the roads this afternoon.

The Governor met with state officials and led a conference call with local officials to coordinate the state's response to Hurricane Sandy.

"With anticipated high winds and heavy rain we are asking people to stay off the roads this afternoon, particularly after 3:00," Governor Lynch said. "Water in the roadways, flying debris and downed power lines are all possible because of the severity of this storm, which is why we are urging people stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary."

The Governor is also urging employers to consider releasing workers early this afternoon, so as to avoid the need for travel after 3:00. The Governor has directed that non-essential state workers, as determined by state department heads, be released from work by 3:00 this afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service, the main impact of the storm will reach New Hampshire around mid-afternoon on Monday, and continue through the early morning hours of Tuesday. The Weather Service predicts wind gusts of up to 70 MPH, rainfall ranging from 1-4 inches, and coastal flooding as a result of the storm surge.

Governor Lynch directed the National Guard to place 100 soldiers on state active duty, with an additional 100 on standby, to assist with the storm response.

"This will be significant storm for New Hampshire, and we are urging all citizens to exercise common sense and extreme caution," Governor Lynch said.

Emergency officials are urging citizens to follow these public safety recommendations:•New Hampshire beaches are now closed, and citizens should stay away from the beaches.•Secure all loose objects in your yards.•Don't drive on flooded roadways.•Don't venture outside during the storm because of the danger of flying debris.•Stay away from downed utility wires and assume they are live.•Operate emergency generators only in well-ventilated areas to avoid the buildup of deadly carbon monoxide gas.